A Co Antrim businessman is calling for cyclists to take part in a new challenge to raise funds for NSPCC Northern Ireland.

Rob McConnell, 42, has organised several mammoth cycling challenges in aid of NSPCC and is now finalising plans for the 2018 event which sees the event go from strength to strength.

The Ballygally-based technology business leader, who is the global head of technology services for the SQS Group company, is the driving force behind the SQS Tech Team Challenge, which first took place in 2015.

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By bringing together his tech sector peers the event has already raised thousands of pounds helping NSPCC in its fight for every childhood.

This year’s event will take place on Saturday, May 12, and as well as his tech industry peers, Rob is hoping businesses across Northern Ireland and individual cyclists will sign up.

"The implications of technology on this generation of children are profound," he said.

"With the many benefits come substantial dangers that present all our families and communities with significant challenges.

"It was this that gave me the motivation to leverage my relationships in the Northern Ireland Tech Sector to host an event to raise awareness and much needed funding for NSPCC Northern Ireland.

"I hope we can build on the success of previous years tech team cycle challenges that have made a real difference on the ground. I believe we can reach the £100,000 target through this tech cycle initiative."

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To date Rob’s endeavours have raised more than £50,000, this has enabled the NSPCC to deliver their Speak Out, Stay Safe message to 60,521 primary school children in Northern Ireland, teaching them in an age appropriate way about abuse and how to keep themselves safe.

Last year’s fixture, started in Ballygally with cyclists enjoying the scenic coastal stretch, passing through the villages of Glenarm and Broughshane – but also incorporated some challenging climbs and testing sprints.

Rob has appealed for cyclists to get involved. Titanic Cycle Club which sports over 180 members will also support the event and you can sign up by visiting - www.sqstechcycle.com for details.

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